Why Is My AC Outside Unit Fan Not Turning On?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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If the is working, but the fan won't turn, then the problem is most likely with the and/or capacitor. If you don't hear any sounds to indicate that the compressor is working, and the fan isn't spinning, the most common causes are a

lack of power or a faulty compressor contactor

.

What causes outside AC fan to stop working?

One of the most common reasons fans stop spinning is because of

a dead capacitor

. The AC's capacitors are small, cylinder components that send energy signals to power the fan motor and the rest of the AC unit. … Capacitors can go bad over time and need to be replaced.

What does it mean when your AC fan won't turn on?

If the fan won't start even with a kick-start, and you hear the compressor running, you probably have

a bad fan motor

. This is more common with systems that are poorly maintained or that operate where a lot of dirt/debris is blown around by the wind. The only thing you can do about a bad motor is to have it replaced.

What do you do when your AC fan won't turn on?

Verify the switch on the



is set to “Fan” or “Cool” and make sure the air conditioner is turned on. Check the temperature that has been set on the thermostat. This needs to be set below the current temperature of the room. Go to the circuit panel and see if a circuit has tripped or if a fuse has blown.

How do I reset my outside air conditioner fan?

  1. Turn off your air conditioning system using the thermostat. …
  2. Search for the breaker box. …
  3. Shut off your AC unit at the breaker. …
  4. Wait at least a full minute before switching the breaker back to the “on” position.
  5. Wait for 30 minutes before turning your unit back on at the thermostat.

How do I know if my AC fan motor is bad?

  1. AC Fan Doesn't Start. Even though you have the AC turned on, the fan does not start.
  2. AC Fan Doesn't Stop. …
  3. Slow Rotating Blades. …
  4. Outside Fan Blades Are Still. …
  5. Rattling, Humming and Buzzing Noises. …
  6. AC Runs Intermittently. …
  7. No Cold Airflow.

What are the signs of a bad AC capacitor?

  1. AC Not Blowing Cold Air. An air conditioner that doesn't blow cold air is one of the first signs of a problem many homeowners notice. …
  2. High and Rising Energy Bills. …
  3. Humming Noise. …
  4. Old HVAC System. …
  5. AC Turns Off On Its Own. …
  6. AC Doesn't Turn On Immediately. …
  7. AC Won't Turn On.

Do all AC units have a reset button?

Also, flip the power switch your AC unit is connected to outside to the off position. Find the button.

Most air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button

.

Why is my fan motor not working?

If the fan takes off and then keeps going on its own, you more than likely have a bad start capacitor. … If the fan doesn't start running, you

may have a bad fan motor

. If you have difficulty getting the blades to turn, there may be debris wrapped around the fan axle, or the motor bearings may be dirty or jammed.

How do I reset my air conditioning unit?

Turn off your air conditioner at your thermostat. Reset the air conditioner breaker in your circuit breaker box.

Wait 30 minutes

, then turn the thermostat for your air conditioner back to “cool.” It should be at least five degrees cooler than room temperature.

How much does it cost to replace an AC fan motor?

When your air conditioner's fan motor breaks, it will typically cost

about $300 to $600

to replace. It's imperative to get this fixed quickly, since without a working fan motor your air conditioner's compressor can be the next domino to tumble. Its repair is even more significant — usually running closer to $2,000.

Where is the reset button on outdoor AC unit?

The reset for a whole house air conditioner is going to be in the outdoor unit. You will have to look for it. It will have a small button that's probably red in color and two wires protruding from the top. The

opposite end

of the pressure switch will have a small copper tube connected to the systems refrigeration line.

How long does an AC fan motor last?

The average lifespan of an AC fan motor is

about 12 years

. An AC fan motor can last more than 12 years if it's kept clean and cooled as needed. On the other hand, without annual maintenance checkups, your fan motor may only survive between one and three years.

What causes AC fan motor to burn up?

The fan will stop circulating the air throughout your HVAC system. It most commonly occurs when the blower fan motor becomes aged or is overworked.

A lack of regular maintenance

is generally to blame for blower fan burnout.

David Evans
Author
David Evans
David is a seasoned automotive enthusiast. He is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering and has a passion for all things related to cars and vehicles. With his extensive knowledge of cars and other vehicles, David is an authority in the industry.